Narrative:The gear was retracted before the aircraft had lifted off, causing the aircraft to slide on its belly. A small fire in the nacelle of the no. 1 engine was extinguished.

PROBABLE CAUSE: "The improper technique of the captain resulting in the unintentional retraction of the landing gear prior to V 1 speed, which was made possible by a malfunctioning left gear safety switch. A contributing factor was inadequate inspection by the carrier."

Sources:

» ICAO Accident Digest, Circular 59-AN/54 (100-102)

Photos

Map

This map shows the airport of departure and the intended destination of the flight. The line between the airports does not display the exact flight path. Distance from New Haven Airport, CT to Bridgeport Airport, CT as the crow flies is 23 km (14 miles).

This information is not presented as the Flight Safety Foundation or the Aviation Safety Networkĺs opinion as to the cause of the accident. It is preliminary and is based on the facts as they are known at this time.